Indien vollführt einen diplomatischen Drahtseilakt und schließt Freundschaft mit der Ukraine, während sein Verbündeter Russland zusieht

Indian Prime Minister [Narendra Modi](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/india-election-results-narendra-modi-rcna154839)’s visit to [Ukraine](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/risks-ukraines-bold-attack-russia-rcna167520) on Friday is likely to be closely watched by New Delhi’s longstanding ally, [Russia](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/us-vet-wanted-child-porn-appears-fighting-russia-ukraine-rcna167157).

The trip comes as [India](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/indias-top-court-forms-doctors-panel-workplace-safety-rcna167306) looks to navigate alliances with arch enemies Russia and the West, as one of the few countries to have robust trading and diplomatic relations with both parties since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 set off heightened global tensions, sanctions and animosity toward the Kremlin.

Modi’s government has looked to remain neutral throughout the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, but has been criticized for maintaining tight trade and diplomatic ties with Moscow.